Red blood cells are a type of cell that are produced in the bone marrow. They contain a protein called hemoglobin that carries oxygen from the lungs to the tissues of the body. Anemia is a condition in which there is a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. Pets with the condition can develop a range of serious symptoms as a result of their bodies receiving insufficient oxygen.
Causes of Anemia
Causes of anemia can be grouped into three main categories: blood loss, destruction of red blood cells, and inadequate production of red blood cells. These categories of anemia can be caused by factors such as trauma, parasitic infections, or exposure to toxins. Anemia can also be caused by a wide range of underlying conditions including cancer, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic liver or kidney disease.
Symptoms of Anemia
Anemia can be a symptom of multiple serious underlying illnesses. For this reason, it is important to visit your veterinarian immediately if your pet displays any of the following signs or symptoms of the condition.
- Exercise intolerance
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
- Increased heart rate
- Increased respiratory rate
- Bloody stools
- Collapse
Diagnosis of Anemia
Your veterinarian will assess your pet’s medical history and ask you a series of questions about the onset and severity of their symptoms. They will then perform a thorough physical examination to check for clinical signs of anemia.
Routine diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count, biochemistry profile, and urinalysis will be carried out to evaluate your pet’s overall health. A packed cell volume (PCV) test is often used to help diagnose anemia. This simple blood test measures the percentage of red blood cells in the bloodstream.
Depending on the results of these tests, your veterinarian may recommend additional diagnostic tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds to check for tumors or other abnormalities.
Treatment of Anemia
Treatment of anemia will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. If anemia is severe, supportive treatment may include blood transfusions to stabilize your pet. A period of hospitalization may also be necessary while your pet undergoes treatment to manage their condition.
Other potential treatments for anemia include antibiotics to address the infection, antiparasitic medications to eliminate parasites, and corticosteroids to treat autoimmune disease. Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment options based on your pet’s specific needs. Please follow all treatment advice closely and administer prescribed medications as instructed.
Prevention of Anemia
Anemia can be difficult to prevent since there are multiple potential causes of the condition. However, there are several measures you can take to prevent conditions that can lead to anemia in pets. Avoid overmedicating your pet and take care not to expose them to toxins. It is also important to speak to your veterinarian about vaccinating your pet against infectious diseases and protecting them against parasites. Finally, please schedule regular appointments with your veterinarian so your pet’s overall health can be continuously monitored.
